Diagnosis of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)/Heartburn

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. He or she will usually make an initial diagnosis of GERD based on your symptoms. In some cases, other tests will be done to confirm the diagnosis or exclude other disorders.

These tests may include:

Upper GI Series
– A series of x-rays of the upper digestive system are taken after drinking a barium solution.

24-hour pH Monitoring
– A probe is placed in the esophagus to keep track of the level of acidity in the lower esophagus. This is done over a 24-hour period.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.